Counties identified as disaster areas because of heat, drought

Wednesday, July 25, 2012

Farmers throughout Missouri affected by the heat and drought that has gripped the state will now have access to low-interest loans and other assistance from the federal government, said Gov. Jay Nixon.

U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack has designated all 114 counties as primary natural disaster areas, following a request by the governor. USDA announced the designation of 97 additional counties, in addition to the 17 counties previously announced. Because it is contiguous to St. Louis County, the City of St. Louis also is included in the designation.

"This designation can help livestock and crop farmers across the state that are suffering great losses because of the heat and lack of rain," said Gov. Nixon, who surveyed damage at farms in Lewis, Atchison and Polk counties on Tuesday. "We're going to continue to stand with farmers during this ongoing disaster and afterward, to help with their recovery. This designation is another part of that process."

A disaster designation allows eligible farmers to be considered for assistance from the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA), including FSA emergency loans.

In addition to keeping an eye on crops and livestock, producers should document any losses or additional costs experienced as a result of weather events, including drought. That information is often required for producers to be eligible for physical and/or production loss loan assistance from the FSA, as well as other assistance programs.

Missouri also has a hay directory for livestock producers as well as other information and resources online at MO.gov.